Switch your business energy supplier

Before deciding to switch your business energy supplier, read the terms and conditions of your existing contract to find out:

• when you can switch
• how much notice you should give your supplier
• if you will need to pay an exit fee

If you work from home you will have a different type of energy contract. Read how to switch your home energy supplier.

When to switch energy supplier 

When you can switch depends on the type of contract you agreed with your supplier. Find out more about the different types of contract available.

Read what to do if your energy supplier goes out of business.

Fixed-rate contracts

Most suppliers will not let you switch before the end of your contract unless you have already agreed a termination clause or pay an exit fee.

Fixed-rate contracts include a ‘switching window’, a set period of time for you to renew with your supplier or tell them you intend to leave. This window opens a few months before the end of your contract.

You can sometimes switch during this window without paying a fee. Check your contract or talk to your supplier or energy broker for more information.

Variable-rate contracts

If you have not agreed a fixed-rate contract or if your contract has expired, you may be on:

• a rolling or ‘evergreen’ contract
• out-of-contract rates
• a deemed-rate contract

With a variable-rate contract, you can switch to a new supplier at any time.

How to switch business energy supplier

You should compare energy prices and contract offers to find the one that is right for you. The best option may be with your current supplier.

You can get information on what is available directly from suppliers or by using an intermediary like a price comparison website or energy broker.

Find out more about using an intermediary to help you get an energy contract.

You will need to give your new supplier some information before signing your contract, including your annual consumption and details of your meter.

Your existing supplier may object to your switch, for example if you owe them money. If this happens, get in touch with them as soon as possible to find out what the issue is and how to resolve it.

Moving to new business premises

You may want to switch to a new supplier or business energy contract for your new premises. You should check if you can do this before you move, and follow the usual switching process.

You are responsible for any energy you use in the period before your new contract starts. If you use energy in this period, your supplier could put you onto a deemed-rate contract.

Read how the change of tenancy process works for businesses.